Set in 18th century England, this novel tells of the life of Thomas Puckle, who at 12 years of age is left an orphan after the death of his parents. Armed with nothing but his wits, he is forced to leave the village of Athelney to make a new life for himself. Adventures follow Thomas as he finds himself embroiled with the scurrilous Marty Dewson. Attempted murder, smuggling, highway robbery, and an encounter with gypsies all take their turn in this...